Microsoft introduced the Copilot key, dedicated to launching its generative AI assistant, on some Windows laptops this year, with the key combination being left-Shift + Windows key + F23. The F23 key is rare on modern keyboards, reminiscent of vintage IBM keyboards. The Copilot key is reprogrammable, but its integration into Windows laptops seems premature, as the future of generative AI is still forming. Microsoft plans to make Copilot keys a requirement for Windows 11 OEM PCs eventually.
Microsoft is requiring OEMs to include a Copilot key in their AI PCs, which must also feature a Neural Processing Unit (NPU), the latest CPUs and GPUs. Intel and Microsoft have aligned on Core Ultra, Copilot, and Copilot key, but some laptops, like Asus’ new ROG Zephyrus, have shipped without the key. Intel is expanding its AI PC acceleration program to reach smaller developers and hardware vendors, aiming to optimize apps and hardware for AI PCs. The race for Intel is against Qualcomm, which is about to launch Snapdragon X Elite laptops, and Google is releasing an optimized version of Chrome for Windows on Arm. Microsoft will outline its vision for AI hardware and software at an upcoming event on May 20th.
Microsoft is introducing a new "Copilot key" on some personal computers running Windows 11, which will launch the company's AI chatbot. This move is part of Microsoft's partnership with OpenAI and aims to integrate generative AI technology into its software. The introduction of the AI key marks a significant change to PC keyboards and is expected to be a competitive move in the technology industry. However, ethical and legal questions surrounding AI technology, including copyright infringement, remain unresolved. Dell Technologies has already announced the inclusion of the Copilot key on its newest XPS laptops, and other computer makers are expected to showcase their models at the CES show in Las Vegas.
Microsoft has introduced a new "Copilot" key to the Windows keyboard, marking the most significant update since the addition of the Windows key in 1994. This key will allow users to instantly access Microsoft's AI-powered assistant, which is built on OpenAI's technology, to perform tasks such as drafting emails or conducting searches. The Copilot key will be featured on new PCs from various manufacturers and is part of Microsoft's vision for the "year of the AI PC." If the Copilot feature is unavailable, the key will default to launching Windows Search. The announcement comes as tech companies increasingly integrate AI into their products, with more updates expected at the upcoming CES tech convention.
Microsoft announced plans to introduce a new Copilot key on PC keyboards, aiming to make 2024 the "year of the AI PC." This key, which will replace the right Control key, is designed to provide easy access to the Copilot in Windows experience, enhancing user interaction with AI features. The Copilot key will also function as a Windows Search button in regions where Copilot is unavailable. The first keyboards with this new key are expected to be showcased at CES and start shipping in late February. Users with existing keyboards can continue using them as is or potentially remap keys to mimic the Copilot function.
